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Understanding CSA C652-00 (2011): Energy Performance Requirements for Packaged Air-Conditioning and Heat Pump Equipment
A comprehensive guide to the scope, technical specifications, and compliance framework of the Canadian standard for packaged air conditioners and heat pumps
Scope and Application
CSA C652-00 (2011) – Energy Performance of Packaged Air-Conditioning and Heat Pump Equipment – establishes minimum energy efficiency requirements and test methods for factory-assembled, self-contained packaged air conditioners and heat pumps. This standard applies to electrically operated, air-cooled units with a cooling capacity up to 73 kW (250,000 Btu/h) and, for heat pump models, covers both cooling and heating operation.
The standard is applicable to equipment used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications, including:
- Single-package vertical units (e.g., through-the-wall, roof-mounted)
- Packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC) and heat pumps (PTHP)
- Small-duct high-velocity systems (when packaged)
- Other self-contained units intended for space conditioning
CSA C652-00 was originally published in 2000 and reaffirmed in 2011, indicating that the technical provisions were reviewed and confirmed as current by the CSA technical committee. It should be used in conjunction with CSA C746 (performance rating standard for chillers and packaged units) and the latest versions of AHRI 210/240 where applicable.
Note: CSA C652-00 (2011) has largely been superseded by later editions (e.g., CSA C652-16) that adopt SEER2/HSPF2 metrics. However, understanding the 2000/2011 version is important for legacy equipment certification and historical compliance.
Technical Requirements
Energy Performance Metrics
The standard defines two primary efficiency metrics for packaged equipment:
- Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) – Measured at full-load, standard rating conditions (35 °C outdoor dry-bulb).
- Coefficient of Performance (COP) – For heat pumps during heating operation, measured at 8.3 °C outdoor dry-bulb (high-temperature rating) and –8.3 °C (low-temperature rating).
For units with variable-speed compressors, a weighted SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) may be required in later editions, but CSA C652-00 (2011) primarily uses EER and COP. The minimum efficiency levels are outlined in the table below.
Important: The values in the table reflect the 2011 reaffirmation. These are the minimum requirements for certification at that time. Higher regional or federal efficiency standards may apply (e.g., NRCan 2012 amendments).
| Equipment Category | Capacity Range (kW cooling) | Minimum EER (Btu/h·W) | Minimum COP (Heating) at 8.3 °C | Minimum COP (Heating) at –8.3 °C |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-package vertical air conditioner | < 19 | 8.5 | — | — |
| Single-package vertical air conditioner | ≥ 19 to < 73 | 8.2 | — | — |
| Single-package vertical heat pump | < 19 | 8.5 | 2.7 | 2.0 |
| Single-package vertical heat pump | ≥ 19 to < 73 | 8.2 | 2.5 | 1.8 |
| Packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) | All | 8.0 | — | — |
| Packaged terminal heat pump (PTHP) | All | 8.0 | 2.2 | 1.6 |
Testing and Rating Conditions
All performance ratings required by CSA C652-00 (2011) must be determined in accordance with CSA C746 (or equivalently, ANSI/AHRI 210/240 for smaller units). The following conditions are specified:
- Cooling full-load: Indoor 26.7 °C dry-bulb / 19.4 °C wet-bulb; Outdoor 35.0 °C dry-bulb.
- Heating high-temperature: Indoor 21.1 °C dry-bulb / 15.6 °C (max); Outdoor 8.3 °C dry-bulb / 6.1 °C wet-bulb.
- Heating low-temperature: Indoor 21.1 °C dry-bulb; Outdoor –8.3 °C dry-bulb / –9.4 °C wet-bulb.
Units with supplementary electric heaters must disable them during the heating COP test.
Tip: Manufacturers should verify that their test facilities are calibrated to maintain the tight tolerances (±0.3 °C for temperatures) required by CSA C652. Inlet air flow measurement using a nozzle box per AMCA 210 is also critical.
Implementation Highlights
Compliance Certification and Marking
In Canada, compliance with CSA C652-00 (2011) is necessary for equipment to bear the CSA certification (CSA logo) or other accredited marks (e.g., cUL, ETL). The standard is considered a baseline for energy efficiency in the National Building Code of Canada and is referenced by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) under the Energy Efficiency Regulations.
Key implementation steps:
- Product classification – Determine if the product falls within the defined scope and capacity limits.
- Testing – Conduct tests at an accredited lab per CSA C746.
- Derating and tolerance – The standard allows a 5% tolerance on measured EER/COP values below the nameplate rating, but the nameplate must meet the minimum.
- Documentation – Submit test reports to a certification body (e.g., CSA Group, UL) for review and listing.
- Marking – Permanently affix nameplate showing EER, COP (if heat pump), capacity, and certification mark.
Relationship with AHRI Standards
CSA C652-00 (2011) harmonizes largely with AHRI 210/240 for small units (< 19 kW) and AHRI 340/360 for larger packaged units. The CSA standard may impose slightly more stringent tolerances or require supplementary Canadian climate-specific tests. Manufacturers who already have AHRI certification may need only additional testing to meet the full CSA requirements.
Compliance benefit: Adherence to CSA C652-00 (2011) provides clarity for Canadian market access and helps avoid delays in NRCan regulatory reviews. It also demonstrates due diligence under the Energy Efficiency Regulations.
Compliance Notes
The regulatory landscape for packaged air conditioners and heat pumps in Canada continues to evolve. While CSA C652-00 (2011) is a landmark standard, stakeholders should be aware of the following:
- Federal Regulations: Under the Canadian Energy Efficiency Regulations, compliance with the version of CSA C652 referenced in the regulations (historically, the 2000 edition) was mandatory for sale in provinces with specific province-level energy efficiency programs (e.g., Ontario, British Columbia). Newer editions (2016) have raised minimum efficiency levels.
- Provincial Variations: Some provinces adopt stricter standards or require earlier compliance dates. For example, Quebec and British Columbia may use a later CSA C652 edition.
- Transition to SEER2: Since 2023, the U.S. DOE and NRCan have moved to SEER2/HSPF2 metrics that include new test conditions. The legacy EER/COP approach of C652-00 is gradually being phased out, but many existing models still rely on these ratings.
Note for legacy equipment: If you maintain or supply units manufactured under CSA C652-00 (2011), verify that replacement parts do not degrade the rated performance. Certain repairs may require re-certification if the efficiency drops below the threshold.
Companies should regularly check the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) Bulletin on Energy Efficiency for updates to referenced standards. Upgrading to the latest version of CSA C652 (e.g., C652-16 or C652-22) is strongly recommended for new product development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who publishes and maintains CSA C652-00 (2011)?
A: The standard is published by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group), a not-for-profit standards development organization. It is maintained by the Technical Committee on Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC). The 2011 reaffirmation means the committee reviewed the technical content and concluded no changes were needed at that time. Since then, new editions have superseded this version for most regulatory purposes.
A: The standard is published by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group), a not-for-profit standards development organization. It is maintained by the Technical Committee on Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC). The 2011 reaffirmation means the committee reviewed the technical content and concluded no changes were needed at that time. Since then, new editions have superseded this version for most regulatory purposes.
Q: How does CSA C652-00 (2011) relate to other standards, such as AHRI 210/240?
A: CSA C652-00 (2011) is harmonized with AHRI 210/240 (for smaller capacities up to 19 kW) and AHRI 340/360 (for larger capacities). However, CSA C652 includes additional requirements specific to Canadian conditions, such as low-temperature heating tests and mandatory labeling expectations. Compliance with AHRI alone does not automatically satisfy CSA C652, but the test methods are largely identical.
A: CSA C652-00 (2011) is harmonized with AHRI 210/240 (for smaller capacities up to 19 kW) and AHRI 340/360 (for larger capacities). However, CSA C652 includes additional requirements specific to Canadian conditions, such as low-temperature heating tests and mandatory labeling expectations. Compliance with AHRI alone does not automatically satisfy CSA C652, but the test methods are largely identical.
Q: Is compliance with CSA C652-00 (2011) mandatory in Canada?
A: Compliance became mandatory under Canada’s Energy Efficiency Regulations in the early 2000s and remained mandatory until superseded by later editions. Currently, equipment manufactured on or after January 1, 2016, must comply with CSA C652-16 or C652-22, depending on the capacity. For older units, the 2011 version may still apply if the product’s design was certified during that timeframe. Always check the current NRCan Bulletin for the most recent regulatory references.
A: Compliance became mandatory under Canada’s Energy Efficiency Regulations in the early 2000s and remained mandatory until superseded by later editions. Currently, equipment manufactured on or after January 1, 2016, must comply with CSA C652-16 or C652-22, depending on the capacity. For older units, the 2011 version may still apply if the product’s design was certified during that timeframe. Always check the current NRCan Bulletin for the most recent regulatory references.
Q: What are the penalties for non-compliance with CSA C652?
A: Non-compliance can result in penalties under provincial and federal energy efficiency legislation. In Canada, fines may be levied against manufacturers, importers, or sellers of equipment that does not meet the prescribed minimum efficiency levels. Additionally, products may be subject to recall from the market. The specific penalties are outlined in the Energy Efficiency Act (Canada) and associated regulations.
A: Non-compliance can result in penalties under provincial and federal energy efficiency legislation. In Canada, fines may be levied against manufacturers, importers, or sellers of equipment that does not meet the prescribed minimum efficiency levels. Additionally, products may be subject to recall from the market. The specific penalties are outlined in the Energy Efficiency Act (Canada) and associated regulations.
Article prepared in 2026. Verify current edition of CSA C652 and applicable regulatory requirements before using this information for certification purposes.